National Press Release

Deadline: July 11, 2008 (midnight, MST)

WASHINGTON, June 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- VSA arts and Volkswagen of America, Inc. are seeking artwork from young artists with disabilities, ages 16-25, living within the U.S. "Green Light" encourages artists to consider the motivations behind their work and the infinite possibilities that creativity provides. Fifteen finalists will be awarded a total of $60,000 during an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill and artwork will be displayed in a nationwide touring exhibition that will debut at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

Artwork may illustrate actual aspects of what signals your creative motivations, such as the physical world or personal discoveries. Abstract work that relates to feelings or emotions is also encouraged. Art must be an original work that has been completed in the last 3 years. Eligible media includes: paintings, drawings, fine art prints, photography, computer generated prints, and mixed media. Artwork must be presented in two dimensions and should not exceed 60 inches in either direction. New this year: sculpture and time-based media (video, film etc.) will also be considered. Sculpture should not exceed 24 inches in any direction. There is no fee to apply. Each artist must complete the submission process online.

Visit www.vsarts.org/VWcall for additional information and entry instructions or contact Jennifer Wexler, visual arts coordinator, at jenniferw@vsarts.org or 800-933-8721 ext. 3885. Alternative formats of the call for entries are available upon request.

VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where people with disabilities learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts. VSA arts provides educators, parents, and artists with resources and the tools to support arts programming in schools and communities. VSA arts showcases the accomplishments of artists with disabilities and promotes increased access to the arts for people with disabilities. Each year millions of people participate in VSA arts programs through a nationwide network of affiliates and in 55 countries around the world. VSA arts is an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. For more information, visit www.vsarts.org.

SOURCE VSA arts